So, you made it. You got from Denver to Estes Park, and man, what a drive, right? Whether you took one of our shuttles (smart move!) or rented a car and drove yourself, you’re finally here. You’re breathing that mountain air. And now… you’re starving.

It happens to everyone. The trip, the altitude, it all just makes you hungry. You’re probably thinking, “okay, where do we eat lunch?”

Well, you’re in luck. We’re Estes Direct. We’re your local guide for getting from Denver to Estes Park and back. We are focused on everything you need to know about getting from denver to estes park and from estes park to denver. And that includes where to grab a bite to eat once you get here. Trust us, we’ve had lunch here a lot.

Finding a good lunch spot in Estes Park can be kinda overwhelming. There’s the main strip (Elkhorn Avenue) that’s just packed with taffy shops, t-shirt stores, and a ton of restaurants. But which ones are good? Which ones are tourist traps?

Don’t worry. We got you. Here’s our guide to the best lunch spots in Estes Park, from a local’s point of view.

The “Must-Try” Local Legends (A Real Sit-Down Meal)

You’re not in a huge rush. You want to sit down, enjoy the vibe, and have a real meal. These are the places we send people, especially after we handle their transfer from DIA and they just want to relax.

1. Bird & Jim

You’re going to hear this name a lot. Bird & Jim is, for a lot of us, the best restaurant in town. It’s not right on the main, main strip, it’s a bit closer to the park entrance on Moraine Avenue. And it’s fantastic.

They call it “Colorado cuisine,” which means lots of locally sourced ingredients, game meats (like elk and bison), but also amazing burgers, salads, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is modern and rustic, kinda “mountain-chic” if that’s a thing. It’s got big windows with great views.

What to get for lunch: Honestly, anything. Their “Jim” Burger is incredible. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Smoked Pheasant Chowder. It’s a great place to set the bar for your Estes Park trip. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s worth every penny.

2. The Grubsteak Restaurant

Been around forever. If you want to try wild game, this is a classic spot to do it. It’s right in the downtown area, super easy to find. The vibe is old-school steakhouse, lots of wood, animal heads on the wall, you get the picture.

For lunch, they have a huge menu. You can get a regular beef burger, or you can try one of their famous burgers made from elk, yak, or bison. It’s a fun “I’m in the mountains” kind of meal. They also have great sandwiches and salads if game meat isn’t your thing. It’s hearty, filling, and a true Estes Park experience.

3. Claire’s Restaurant and Bar

Another Estes Park staple. Claire’s is right downtown, overlooking Bond Park. In the summer, their patio is one of the best spots for people-watching. It’s just a solid, reliable, all-around good American restaurant.

They’re great for breakfast, but their lunch is awesome, too. Think big salads, burgers, and sandwiches. They’re known for their Wild Game Meatloaf (yep, sensing a theme in this town?), but their seafood mac and cheese is also a local secret. It’s a “please everyone” kind of place. If you’re with a group that can’t decide, go to Claire’s.

Best Bites with a View (You’re in the Rockies, After All)

Let’s be real, you came here for the views. Why not have lunch with one? These spots are all about the atmosphere.

1. Mama Rose’s

Want to eat right on the river? Go to Mama Rose’s. It’s located right on the Riverwalk, just below the main street. It’s an Italian joint in this cute historic building, and their patio is literally right on the Fall River.

It’s so relaxing to sit out there, listen to the water, and eat a big plate of pasta. For lunch, they have classics like lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and some great paninis. It’s a total vibe. If you use our custom concierge service, we can even try and get you a reservation for one of those prime riverside tables.

2. Poppy’s Pizza & Grill

Also right on the river! Poppy’s is just a little further down the Riverwalk from Mama Rose’s. It’s more casual—pizza, burgers, sandwiches. It’s super family-friendly, and again, that patio is the main draw.

They have a huge menu of specialty pizzas (the “Loaded” is… well, it’s loaded). It’s a great place to just chill out, have a beer, split a pizza, and watch the river go by. Can’t go wrong.

3. Antlers Tavern

This one is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s on the third floor of a building on Elkhorn Ave. You gotta look for the sign. Why go up there? Because it’s a rooftop bar!

The views of the mountains and Lumpy Ridge are just awesome. It’s a great place to escape the crowds on the street below. The food is solid tavern fare—think tasty appetizers (get the antlers dip), burgers, and good drinks. It’s maybe our favorite spot for a sunny afternoon lunch.

Quick & Easy (When the Mountains are Callin')

Sometimes you just need to grab something fast. You’re trying to get into Rocky Mountain National Park before your timed entry expires, or you just got off your shuttle from Denver and need food now.

1. Scratch Deli & Bakery

This is where the locals go for a sandwich. Period. It’s on Moraine Avenue (in the same little strip as Smokin’ Dave’s). They bake their own bread, and everything is, well, made from scratch.

Their specialty sandwiches are the way to go. The “Italian” is a classic, and the “Pastrami” is amazing. It’s not a big place, and there can be a line, but it moves fast. Grab a sandwich, a bag of chips, and one of their giant cookies, and you’ve got the perfect picnic to take into the park.

2. Boss Burgers and Gyros

Another spot on Moraine Ave. This place is no-frills, counter-service, and just plain good. They, of course, have burgers, but their gyros are the real deal.

It’s fast, it’s delicious, and it’s not crazy expensive. They have a little patio out front, or you can just take it to go. When you just need something hearty and quick, this is a top-tier choice.

3. Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ

You’ll probably smell this place before you see it. Smokin’ Dave’s is legendary. They have a sit-down restaurant, but for a quick lunch, just pop in and get a pulled pork or brisket sandwich to go.

The portions are massive. The meat is tender. The sauces are awesome. It’s messy, but in the best way possible. If you’re a BBQ fan, you have to try it.

A Taste of Something Different (Tired of Burgers?)

Listen, we love a good elk burger. But sometimes you want something else.

1. Ed’s Cantina & Grill

A staple in Estes for years. Ed’s is right on the main drag, and it’s another spot with a great patio on the river. They do awesome Tex-Mex and Mexican food. We’re talking sizzling fajitas, great tacos (try the bison tacos!), and chile rellenos.

It’s a fun, lively atmosphere, and their margaritas are pretty famous. It’s always busy, which is a good sign. A great place to unwind and get your taco fix.

2. Estes Thai Restaurant

Maybe the best “hidden gem” in town. It’s in a tiny little building, and you might walk right past it. Don’t. This is legit, authentic, amazing Thai food.

The restaurant itself is super small and cozy. Their Pad Thai, green curry, and drunken noodles are all as good as anything you’d find in a big city. It’s a fantastic change of pace from all the mountain-town comfort food. We love this place.

3. Antonio’s Real New York Pizza

This is the best pizza in Estes Park. Fight me. No, really, it’s just like it says—real New York pizza. It’s a tiny little joint, mostly for takeout, but they have a few tables.

You can get giant slices or a whole pie. The “Grandma’s Pizza” (a thick-crust Sicilian style) is a local favorite. It’s just perfect, foldable, greasy-in-a-good-way New York pizza. In the middle of the Rocky Mountains. What’s not to love?

The Classic Comfort Food Stop

Sometimes you just want a classic, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug.

1. Big Horn Restaurant

This place feels like stepping back in time. It’s a family-run, classic diner-style restaurant. They’re famous for their breakfast (which they serve all day!), but their lunch is just as good.

Think country-fried steak, open-faced sandwiches, and a soup and salad bar. It’s where the old-timers go. It’s not fancy, but it’s comforting, filling, and friendly.

2. The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

A little bit outside of the main downtown, on the way to the park. The Rock Inn is in this amazing historic log cabin, and it just feels like Colorado. It’s so cozy, especially if it’s a chilly day.

They have great salads, sandwiches, and wood-fired pizzas for lunch. It’s known for its live music at night, but for lunch, it’s just a perfectly chill, rustic spot to relax.

Phew! That’s a lot of options. But you can’t go wrong.

The best part about Estes Park is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you just want to grab a quick sandwich for a picnic or have a long, lazy lunch by the river, you’ll find it.

And remember, we’re here to help with more than just food recommendations. Estes Direct is all about making your whole trip easier. We are focused on everything you need to know about getting from denver to estes park and from estes park to denver. Our company can help you with shuttles, private car rentals, and transfers.

And don’t forget about our custom concierge services. See a place on this list you really want to try? Let us know, and we can make the reservation for you. That’s just what we do.

Trust us for the most up to date information for getting from Denver to Estes Park, and for what to do once you’re here. Now go get some lunch!

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